Bhutan- The Last Kingdom of the Himalayas
The last Buddhist Kingdom in the Himalayas, where Gross National Happiness is the measure of the country’s prosperity, where there are no traffic lights, where climbing high peaks is forbidden and where rice is red & chilies are the national food- Bhutan is a land like none other.
Nestled between India & China, with lofty mountains, gaping gorges and thick sheath of forests dominating its landscape; Bhutan’s natural beauty complements its rich Buddhist culture & traditions. Come with us on a short sojourn as we delve into the natural and spiritual beauty of Bhutan.
Historical Legacy of Bhutan
Buddhism was introduced in Bhutan in the 7th century followed by establishment of Drukpa Kagyupa School of Buddhism in the 12th century. Bhutan underwent an intermittent period of civil war and unrest till the early 20th century when in December 1907 Ugyen Wangchuck was elected as the hereditary ruler of Bhutan. The Wangchuck dynasty still rules over the country.
Cultural Legacy of Bhutan
Bhutan’s culture is strongly based on Tibetan form of Mahayana Buddhism. Its unique customs & traditions are woven beautifully in the cultural fabric of the country. People wear traditional costumes to work, talk in either Dzongkha or Sharchop dialects and crimson-robed monks use smart phones; showcasing the way ancient traditions embrace modernity in Bhutan.
Major Destinations in Bhutan
Thimphu- The Thumping Heart of Bhutan
The fascinating capital of Bhutan, Thimphu, preserves its small-town charm amidst growing modernization and commercial exuberance. While the city center is dotted with nightclubs, modern cafes & hotels, its humble wooden houses and gorgeous temples fiercely protect its traditional allure.
Major Attractions in Thimphu
- Tashichho Dzong- Buddhist Monastery in Thimphu
- National Memorial Chorten- Dedicated to Tantric Buddhism
- Kuensel Phodrang (Buddha Point)- 51-foot-high- seated Buddha statue.
- Institute for Zorig Chusum- Art & Craft Institute
- National Textile Museum
- Zilukha Nunnery
- Thimpu’s Weekend Market- On the west bank of River Wang Chhu
Paro- Gateway to the Kingdom of Bhutan
The colorful town of Paro is sure to leave you mesmerized by its spellbinding natural beauty, ancient monasteries and stunning dzongs. Beautiful, tranquil and untouched; Paro is certainly a captivating experience.
Major Attractions in Paro
- Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest)
- Rinchin Pung Dzong ( Paro Dzong)- Ancient Fortress
- Dumtse Lhakhang- Buddhist Temple
- Chhoeten Lhakhang- Buddhist Temple
- Zuri Dzong- Buddhist Monastery
- National Museum, Paro
- Druk Choeding (Tshongdoe Naktshang)- Town temple of Paro
- Gonsaka Lhakhang- Buddhist Temple
- Paro is the base for many Himalayan treks.
Punakha
A picturesque drive of around 85kms from Thimphu takes you to the quaint little town of Punakha, the long-lost capital of Bhutan. Perched at the confluence of the two major rivers, Pho Chuu and Mo Chuu, Punakha offers you a variety of attractions and experiences.
Major Attractions in Punakha
- Punakha Dzong- Buddhist Monastery
- Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten- Buddhist Temple
- Ritsha- A picturesque village
- Chimi Lhakhang- Buddhist Monastery
- Sangchhen Dorji Lheundrup Lakhang- Buddhist Temple
- Jigme Dorji National Park
- Druk Wangyal Chortens-108 Buddhist Stupas.
- White water rafting, hiking, suspension-bridge-walking, trekking and bird watching.
Fairs and Festivals of Bhutan
- Thimphu Tshechu- Celebrated in September in Tashichho Dzong in Thimpu.
- Paro Tshechu- Spring Festival in Paro
- Jambay Lhakhang Drup Tshechu
- Punakha Tshechu- Commemorating 17th century Bhutan-Tibet battle
- Haa Summer Festival- Tourism festival in the Valley of Haa
- Matsutake Festival- Food Festival of Bhutan
Bhutan’s breathtaking natural beauty, gorgeous destinations, stunning architecture and heart-warming hospitality certainly makes it an experience to be cherished for life.
Bhutan Tour Packages
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